How do I install and set up an eSIM on my iOS device?

In this article:

How do I know if I'm using the new Airalo or the public Airalo?
If you're using the new Airalo
If you're using the public Airalo

You can install and set up an Airalo eSIM on your iOS device from the Airalo app. The steps may look different depending on whether you are using the public Airalo or the new Airalo.

Before you start, make sure:

Your device supports eSIM and is network-unlocked.
- See: What devices support eSIM?
- See: How do I check if my iOS device supports eSIM?
You have a stable internet connection, preferably Wi-Fi.
You are using the latest version of the Airalo app.

How do I know if I'm using the new Airalo or the public Airalo?

If the app asks you to set up your device once and buy packages, you are using the new Airalo. Simply open the Packages tab (formerly "My eSIMs") to complete setup, and after that, whenever you buy a new package for your desired destination, it will be added to that same device automatically—no new eSIM needed.
If the app shows individual eSIM installation instructions for each purchase and the My eSIMs tab instead of Packages, you are likely using the public Airalo.

If you're using the new Airalo

With the new Airalo, you do not need to install a new eSIM for every trip. You set up your iOS device once, then buy packages for different destinations. You can find the setup instructions in our New Airalo - Setup Guide and FAQs.

If you're using the public Airalo

With the public Airalo, you usually install an eSIM for a specific destination, region, or global package.

Where can I find the eSIM installation instructions in the Airalo app?

You can find your installation instructions in the Airalo app:

Open the Airalo app.
Go to My eSIMs.
Select your eSIM.
Tap View details.
Go to Ready to use your eSIM.
Select Install or share.

To view the manual installation instructions and QR code, select Share and more. To start the direct installation, select Start installation.

Why can't I find the installation instructions after I install my eSIM?

When Airalo detects that your eSIM is installed, the instructions to add the eSIM may no longer be visible in the app. Instead, you'll see the How to connect section, which shows you how to connect to a network and use your eSIM.

If you need to reference the installation instructions, you can check the installation PDF attached to your order confirmation or eSIM delivery email.

How to install an eSIM directly on iOS

Select Start installation.
Tap Continue until activation starts.
Allow the eSIM to activate if asked. This is a standard part of the iPhone process, but don't worry, your eSIM will only connect at destination.
Follow any additional instructions shown on your screen.
Wait while the eSIM activates. Do not exit the process — it may take a few minutes.
Select Done when prompted.
After completing these steps, you'll see a confirmation that your eSIM was successfully installed.
Slide to Continue.
If a pop-up asks you to enable data roaming for your eSIM, enable it and Slide to continue.
If another pop-up asks whether you are already at your destination:
- If you are in the destination country, tap Get Connected to check the steps to connect to your network.
- If you have not arrived yet, tap Connect Later.

Most eSIM validity periods start only when the eSIM connects to a mobile network in its coverage area. Installing early usually will not cause you to lose plan days.

In rare cases, validity may begin at installation. Check the eSIM's validity policy by selecting Package details before or after purchase.

How to install an eSIM manually on an iOS device

Open Settings.
Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.
Tap Add eSIM.
Tap Use QR Code.
Tap Enter Details Manually.
Enter:
- SM-DP+ Address
- Activation Code
- Confirmation Code, if provided
Select Next, then Continue.
Allow the eSIM to activate if asked.
Follow any additional instructions shown on your screen.
Wait while the eSIM activates. Do not exit the process — it may take a few minutes.
Select Done when prompted.
Follow the steps in the How to connect section.

How to install an eSIM via QR code on an iOS device

Open Settings.
Tap Cellular or Mobile Data.
Tap Add eSIM (or Add Cellular/Mobile Data).
Tap Use QR Code.
Scan or select the saved QR code from your Photos.
- You can use a printed copy or another device to display it.
If prompted, enter the 4-digit confirmation code.
- Skip this step if no confirmation code is provided.
Select Continue.
Allow the eSIM to activate if asked.
Follow any additional instructions shown on your screen.
Wait while the eSIM activates. Do not exit the process — it may take a few minutes.
Select Done when prompted.
Follow the steps in the How to connect section.

How to connect to a network on iOS

You can find the connection settings in the Airalo app after installing your eSIM.

Go to:

My eSIMs → select your eSIM → View details → Ready to use your eSIM → Connect to a network → How to connect.

When you are in the destination country, follow these steps.

Step 1: Enable your eSIM for data

Open Settings.
Select Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM.
Toggle Turn On This Line if it is not enabled.
Go back to Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM as the data line.

Step 2: Update APN settings, if required

Open Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM.
Select Cellular Data Network or Mobile Data Network.
Enter the APN exactly as shown in your Airalo app.
Leave the other fields blank.

If the APN is set automatically, no changes are needed.

Step 3: Enable Data Roaming, if required

Open Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM.
Toggle Data Roaming ON or OFF as instructed in your Airalo app.

Step 4: Set your eSIM as the default voice line, if applicable

Open Settings > Cellular > Default Voice Line.
Select your new eSIM for calls and SMS, if your package includes calls and texts.

Step 5: Disable Cellular Data Switching

Open Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
Tap Cellular Data.
Turn Allow Cellular Data Switching off.

Step 6: Choose a label for your eSIM

Open Settings.
Select Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM.
Choose Label.
Select a suggested label or create a custom one, such as Airalo or Airalo for Canada.

Using a label helps you identify your eSIM, especially if you use multiple lines.

Bonus step: Connect to the supported network

If your eSIM does not connect automatically:

Open Settings > Cellular or Mobile Data.
Select your eSIM.
Select Network Selection.
Turn Automatic off.
Select the network shown in your Airalo app connection instructions.

Understanding status: Installed vs. In Use

You can track your setup progress directly in the Airalo app by going to My eSIMs, selecting your eSIM, and tapping View details. Depending on your setup stage, you may see one of these statuses:

Installed: The eSIM profile has been successfully downloaded and configured on your device. You can verify this by checking your device’s Settings > Cellular.
In Use: The eSIM has successfully connected to a mobile network and initiated a data session.

Note: In most cases, you can see these status updates in the app. However, please note that status visibility may vary depending on your specific eSIM.

If you do not see a status, do not worry—simply check if your eSIM appears in your device’s Settings > Cellular. If it is there, head over to the "How to connect" section in the app / and follow the steps to get connected at your destination.

The installation didn't go as planned

If you are using the public Airalo and the direct installation fails, you may see a Something went wrong message.

Tap View options to access available self-service tools. Depending on the situation, you may be able to:

Replace your eSIM profile.
Request a refund if the issue cannot be resolved.
Contact Support for help.

If you are using the new Airalo and the setup fails, return to the Airalo app and try the setup again. If you still need help, contact us via chat in the app or on the website.